Encounter Thai Culture

Thanks for booking our 8-day Thailand tour from USA! When your flight arrives at Bangkok Don Mueang International Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport, our guide will be waiting for you in the arrival hall. After a warm welcome, you will be escorted to the hotel in a comfortable private car exclusively arranged for you. It takes 30 to 40 minutes depending on the traffic.

► SIM Card in Thailand:
The main telecom operators in Thailand are Turemove, DTAC and AIS. AIS is a more popular choice because of its reliable signal, which works well even in mountainous areas. The 8-day unlimited data package (15GB at max speed) for THB 299 (USD 9) is your ideal option, with a pre-loaded 50-baht call credit. It is available at the 7-Eleven store, just a 5-minute walk southwest of your hotel.

► Free Time Suggestion: Stroll around the Unique Riverside Night Market
After check-in, if you’re not bothered by jet lag, consider taking a 20-minute taxi ride to the Asiatique the Riverfront. This large night market greets you with two enchanting landmarks: a giant Ferris wheel and a carousel spinning, offering a great chance to practice your photography skills. The food court and exhibition area in Zones 5-6 are especially worth exploring. Indulge in fresh juices, sumptuous fried treats and seafood dishes, or watch how nimble fighters showcase the artistry and intensity of Muay Thai during your exploration. As the sun sets, you can stroll to the riverside to sip a drink while soaking in Bangkok’s night view in a bar.

► Ride-hailing Tips:
Use the Bolt or Grab app to hail a taxi during your free exploration, which avoids unexpected fare hikes and detours by street taxi drivers. Although Grab may cost a little more, it responds fast during peak periods. Besides, you can try riding the tuk-tuk, a unique three-wheeled motorized rickshaw in Thailand. But remember to negotiate the price with the driver beforehand. Offering 50% lower than the initial price is reasonable. You can prepare cash in different denominations for easier payment.

Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok (4 stars)

Let’s start our guided Thailand tour! Today’s first destination is Wat Pho, the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok. Here, you’ll witness the morning ritual of monks chanting prayers. Take a stroll through the tranquil temple and you’ll find the 46-meter (151-foot) long magnificent reclining Buddha statue. Next, we’ll walk a few minutes north to the highlight of the day, the Grand Palace. This elaborately designed palace is the symbol and the most important temple complex of Thailand, exhibiting the finest art of Siamese paintings, sculptures and decorations. The golden stupa and the Phra Mondop’s (Library) glazed tiles sparkle in the sunlight, showcasing the luxury of royal architecture. Our guide will also lead you to the Wat Phra Kaew within the palace, a gorgeous temple dedicated to the sacred Emerald Buddha. At the entrance, you will find a basin of holy water with lotus flower alongside. Try to use the flower to sprinkle the water on the head, which is believed to bring good fortune.
► Tips: Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting. If needed, suitable attire can be rented at the entrance for THB 200(USD 6) per piece, which is refundable upon return. Also, you need to remove your shoes before entering the main hall. Some floors are exposed to the sun, so prepare socks to protect your feet from getting burned.

At noon, our guide will lead you on a shuttle boat to Supatra River House, a riverside restaurant across the Chao Phraya River for a sumptuous Thai lunch. After a short break, we’ll drive about 20 minutes to Bangkok Chinatown, where we’ll explore the bustling blocks on foot. Our guide, who has spent years navigating Bangkok and is most familiar with its labyrinth of alleys, will take you for a walk along one of the city’s oldest streets. Passing through the Yaowarat Road full of interesting boutiques, you can stop at an old tea shop to sample a cup of Chinese tea if you like. Walking past Trok Leng Moi Eia to Talad Kao, we will find a distinctive local market. Finally, you will be accompanied to visit Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (Wat Leng Noei Yi), a small and tranquil Taoist temple hidden in downtown Bangkok.

★ Exclusive Chao Phraya River Cruise by Long-tail Boat
Next, we’ll walk a few minutes to the Ratchawong Pier to embark on a traditional Thai long-tail boat to float along the Chao Phraya River for 1 hour. Along the way, you can observe the captivating mix of modernity and tradition of Bangkok as you pass by skyscrapers and ancient temples. Especially, our boat will navigate through small channels to find some traditional Thai houses, providing you with a picture of the authentic daily lives of locals. Don’t forget to take some bread to feed the lively catfish that swim alongside your boat.

Our boat will dock at Wat Arun on the west side of the river, and the guide will lead you to visit this magnificent temple. Its striking pagoda rises majestically into the sky, earning it the nickname “Thailand’s Eiffel Tower”. At sunset, the intricate design of geometric shapes and colorful ceramic fragments is bathed in golden light, bringing you ultimate visual enjoyment. Then you’ll be escorted to the hotel.

► Dinner Suggestion: Savor Authentic Crab Curry
To truly savor the unique flavor of Bangkok, start your dinner with Crab Curry. This dish, originally made with celery, scallions and onions, experienced a magical twist when a chef accidentally added curry, leading to its unexpected popularity. To taste this local favorite, you can take a 15-minute taxi ride from your hotel to Somsom Seafood at Chulalongkorn University Night Market. The restaurant closes at 22:00, but it is recommended that you go there as early as possible to ensure a better experience. After that, you can try local specialties like Grilled Banana and Mango Sticky Rice at the night market.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok (4 stars)

In the morning, we’ll leave the hectic Bangkok City and drive for 1 hour to Ayutthaya, the 400-year-old Siamese capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a bustling hub of trade and culture in the 17th century, Ayutthaya was one of the largest cities globally until an unfortunate destruction during a war in 1767. Our first destination is Ayutthaya Historical Park, a living museum of majestic temples narrating the rich history of this once-thriving city. As you wander through the remains of Wat Mahattat, Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Lokaya Sutharam, imagine the glory of old Ayutthaya Kingdom (1351-1767). Don’t miss the mystical sight of the Buddha’s head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree at Wat Mahattat. The Buddha statue seems like a reminder of time passing, witnessing Ayutthaya’s rise and fall with an eternal smile. And Wat Lokaya Sutharam introduces you to the biggest reclining Buddha statue in Ayutthaya, a tranquil giant inviting believers to pause and reflect.
► Tips: 
1.Remember to wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the scorching sun since the Park is expansive and has few shelters. Parasols are available at the entrance for extra comfort.
2.When capturing photos with the Buddha statues, please remain lower than their heads to show respect.

★ Ayutthaya’s Specialty Tasting
Then our guide will lead you to the Muslim quarter, savoring one of the most popular local snacks, Roti Sai Mai. Marshmallows are wrapped in flatbreads and then the dessert top is sprinkled with sesame seeds. Observe the skillful process as Muslims prepare it, and choose your favorite flavors like pandan, banana, or strawberry.

After having a sumptuous lunch, the guide and the driver will escort you to Bangkok Airport for a 1-hour flight to Chiang Mai. Upon your arrival, our local guide will greet you warmly and escort you to the hotel in our exclusive car with a chauffeur.

► Free Time Suggestion: Take an Adventure in Chiang Mai Night Safari
If you still feel energized upon arrival, have an adventure in Chiang Mai Night Safari on your own. This park, a 20-minute taxi ride from your hotel, is an ideal destination if traveling with children, offering an immersive experience from 11:00-22:00. You’ll have an up-close encounter with zebras, rhinos and wildebeests aboard a small train. Also, you can enjoy a stroll along the Swan Lake and Jaguar Trail. On weekends and holidays, there is a chance to watch traditional Thai dance performances at 20:30. The entrance fee is THB 1,200 (USD 36) per person and it can be paid on-site.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars)

After breakfast, we’ll go on a walking tour to explore the highlights of the charming Chiang Mai City. Starting from the bank of the Mae Ping River, we’ll first visit the bustling Warorot Market, a favorite hangout for the locals, so you may encounter locals browsing the stalls in slippers and vests. The air is filled with delightful aromas created by the myriad of floral decorations, perfect for recording with your camera – even if you can’t take them home. Cotton and linen clothing, dried fruits, and hobo bags are best selling products. Most stalls accept cash payments, and the prices are more favorable than those of the night market. Remember to improve your negotiation skills to get the best deals!
► Tip: If you are tempted by dried fruits, be vigilant as the stall owner packs your purchase. Because they may sneak some desiccant in, and your cost will skyrocket with the weight!

★ Special Arrangement: Take a Rickshaw to Explore Chiang Mai’s Old Town
Next, you’ll travel to the Tha Pae Gate on a unique rickshaw ride. As we glide along the streets, you can take in the beautiful scenery and feel the marketplace atmosphere of Chiang Mai’s old town, and talk to your rickshaw driver to find out more about their daily lives.

Tha Pae Gate is the main portal of the ancient city of Chiang Mai, and the center of important public activities and festivals. The surrounding crimson city walls and pigeon flocks create a picturesque scene worthy of a photograph. Please ignore those who offer photo services, since they may demand an additional THB 100 (USD 3) while disturbing the pigeons for a “better” shot. From here, continue our visit to Three Kings Monument and Wat Chedi Luang, where the City Pillar stands, a meeting place for locals beneath the shade of a venerable tree. Our next stop is Wat Phra Singh, an exquisite temple that epitomizes the artistry of the Lanna Kingdom (1259-1317). It is said that the Buddhist relics of Sakyamuni were enshrined in the temple’s 20-meter (66-foot) high golden stupa.

The magnificent Wat Phra That Doi Suthep will be our last stop, where the first thing that catches your eyes is two statues of Naga, serpents in Buddhist myth, stretching along the 306 steps. Besides, two statues of Yakshas, protector in Buddhism, stand at the top, welcoming you to this holy site. If you find the climb challenging, consider taking the one-way cable car, which is included in the price. Just let your guide know ahead of time! Finally, the guide will escort you back to the hotel.

► Free Time Suggestion: Explore the Night Market at Nimman Road
Hanging out at the night market is absolutely a must-do in Chiang Mai! The maze of alleys on Nimman Road is alive with the essence of nightlife. Open from 11:00 to 22:00, it is a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel. You can explore intricate handicrafts like wooden plates and breathable cotton and linen clothing in Soi 1 (Lane 1). Soi 3 boasts the well-known Ristr8to Specialty Coffee, where you can worship the world-class latte art. Quaint stores in Soi 5 almost cover locals’ daily routines, offering a glimpse into their cozy lifestyle. Additionally, art exhibitions and live music performances are available at the Think Park, the most vibrant space in the night market.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars)

★ Elephant Care Program – Learn to Be a Mahout in One Day!
Today you will participate in an interesting and meaningful elephant care program. After breakfast, take a 1.5-hour ride to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Upon arrival, you’ll be invited to wear the traditional attire of the Karen tribe, playing the role of a mahout. Then the guide will share his insights about the living habits of elephants, paving the way for friendly interactions with them. Armed with sugar cane and bananas, you will step into the elephants’ world, where they’ll eagerly accept your gentle touch and roll up the fruits you offer! You’ll enjoy a Thai buffet lunch and fresh fruits before the afternoon’s fun activities. Then stroll with the elephants from the forest to the river, where you can play with them or give them a mud bath. Don’t miss recording this fascinating encounter with your camera! After rinsing, say goodbye to the elephants, and you’ll be escorted to the hotel.
► Tips: 
1.If the elephants here are not willing to bathe, they will leave and will not be forced to do anything.
2.There is a bumpy mountain road before entering the sanctuary, so bring some motion sickness medication for your comfort.

► Insider Communication Skills with Elephants
1. Bon: Open Mouth
2. Dee Dee: Good
3. How: Stop
4. Lerlee: Finish
5. Tablu: Thank you

Note: Our original itinerary was to visit the Elephant Nature Park, the largest elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai. Due to current repairs from flooding, we offer this alternative experience that’s just as enriching. We’ll be sure to resume the visit when it reopens.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars)

After a leisurely breakfast today, we will drive for 1 hour to Mae Kampong Village, deep in the mountains. On the way, stop at a local market to pick up the ingredients for today’s lunch. Located at a high altitude of 1,300 meters (4,265 feet), the Mae Kampong Village enjoys a cool climate all year round, with no distinct seasons. It retains a relatively rustic charm, with the Thai bamboo houses showing you the unique architectural beauty. As the soothing sounds of murmuring streams surround you, our guide will lead you through the lush forest and unveil hidden waterfalls. Equip yourself with sun protection and insect repellent for a comfortable adventure. If you wish, pause to sip a cup of coffee beside the waterfall while capturing magical moments on the thrilling suspension bridge.

★ Unique Cooking Experience with the Locals
We will have lunch with a local family and create a special memory by preparing meals together. Learn how to make local specialties and get a detailed look at their real lives with the guide’s translation.

In the afternoon, continue driving through the wooded mountains for about 2.5 hours to Chiang Rai. On the way, stop to visit Wat Rong Khun (White Temple). Here, you can lose yourself in the dreamlike atmosphere created by exquisite carvings and shimmering mirror fragments. You will notice that numerous visitors write their names onto paid tin Bodhi leaves for blessings. If you are interested, add it to your to-do list. Check into the hotel upon arrival in Chiang Rai.

► Free Time Suggestion: End Your Day at Cozy Lalita Cafe
Take a 15-minute taxi ride from your hotel and you will reach the fairy-tale Lalita Cafe. Spend at least an hour wandering through its stunning garden valued at 80 million baht (over 2 million dollars), where an artificial waterfall and orchids are perfect photo backdrops. Coffee, desserts, western cuisine and Northern Thai specialties are served, with prices ranging from THB 80-300 (USD 2-9). You can also experience traditional Thai massage on the second floor. The entry fee is THB 60 (USD 2), but it is redeemable against your meal upon billing.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort and Spa (4 stars)

Today, we’re going to drive for 1 hour to take a special border adventure! In the morning, our guide and the drive will lead you to Mae Sai. Experience the blend of cultures as you stroll through the busy Myanmar border market, where goods from China, Myanmar, Laos and Thailand are exchanged and traded. Perhaps the most popular of them are jade items, which are crafted by artisans using raw materials imported from Myanmar. While the intricate designs and deep green hues are catching, it’s best to admire their beauty rather than purchase them, as many items come with an exorbitant price.

Then head to the well-known Golden Triangle area where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar. We’ll visit the House of Opium there. With our guide’s excellent explanations and the museum’s extensive collections, you’ll delve into the opium-growing process, various opium-smoking tools, and legendary stories of drug kingpins. As a memento, you will receive a postcard that you can stamp with the museum’s seal. After that, we will transfer to Chiang Saen, the center of the Golden Triangle located on the Mae Kok River plain, to visit some of the local temples and historic sites.

★ Unveil Mysterious Golden Triangle: Cruise along the Mekong River
Next, our guide will lead you on a 45-minute cruise along the Mekong River. As the boat slowly sails toward the boundary of the three countries, the boatman will stop for you to take photos. On the way, it is impossible to overlook the striking golden Buddha statue on the Thai side. Sitting on a dragon boat, the statue is said to be built to suppress the water monster in the river. The Laos side is lined with skyscrapers with construction trucks busy shuttling back and forth. And you will have a chance to board Kapok Island in Laos and stretch your legs in the park while docking. After the tour, you will be escorted back to your hotel in Chiang Rai.

► Recommended Restaurant for Dinner: Moom Mai Restaurant
This restaurant is a good place for you to enjoy the true taste of Northern Thai dishes, a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel. Decorated in a traditional Lanna style, the restaurant features warm lighting and elegant folk music, offering you a delightful atmosphere. Grilled meats, seafood and stir-fried dishes are served, and they cost around THB 400-500 (USD 12-15) per person. The Fried Fish Cakes are also worth trying because of the pizza-like appearance and crispy texture. Vegetarian options abound as well, with light dishes such as tofu and cabbage offering ideal alternatives. For your comfort, the indoor seat is recommended to protect you from mosquito bites.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort and Spa (4 stars)

This is the last day of your Thailand tour. After breakfast, our guide and the driver will see you off at the Chiang Rai Airport, where you will board a 1.5-hour flight back to Bangkok. Here’s the end of our service. Wish you enjoyed the trip!

Note: The flight from Chiang Rai to Bangkok will land at one of the city’s two airports – Don Mueang International Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport. If you have a connecting flight to your home or next destination, please be mindful of your departure airport, as they are about a 50-minute drive apart. Free shuttle bus is available at both airports, operating from 5:00 to 24:00. You can take it with your passport and e-ticket for the connecting flight. A late afternoon or evening flight out of Bangkok is suggested to ensure a smooth journey.

If you want to continue exploring other Thailand destinations like Mae Hong Son, Pai, and Lopburi, or travel to other neighboring countries such as Cambodia, Laos, or Vietnam, please contact our travel consultants to tailor your itinerary.

Meals: Breakfast